Norbert

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Norbert is an unusual young Scout who is very proud of being self-sufficient, and likes to tell us about his ability. He is a little uncoordinated, much to the delight of the audience. This skit is best presented indoors with a relatively small audience, so Norbert's demonstration is appreciated up close. The skit is best if not rehearsed. Preparation Norbert is two people. One is seen by the audience from the waist up. His hands are inserted into a large pair of boots that are propped up on the table. He has a blanket-covered hunch back, which conceals the second Scout. The second Scout reaches his hands under the arms of the first; these are Norbert's hands. The visible Norbert should be a Scout who likes to talk and can keep a happy outlook in the face of some physical discomfort. Collect all materials in advance, and plan the order in which they will be used. Encourage the Scouts to suggest ideas, but do not plan too many activities. The skit should not run more than 10 minutes at the most. A plastic sheet on the floor will help with the cleanup. The Skit The curtain opens, and Norbert is seated behind a table. The table is draped with a blanket or sheet so that the audience cannot see behind it. Norbert introduces himself, gesturing with his hands. He knows that he looks a little strange, but he is a very capable and independent Boy Scout. He is very proud that he knows how to take care of himself. Norbert would like to show us how he gets up in the morning. As he demonstrates, he talks about what he is doing. "First, I wash my face." A Scout brings a basin of water and a washcloth. He washes, getting water over a wide area. "Then, I shave." Applies shaving cream and shaves. (Use a safety razor without a blade!) Because the person operating his hands cannot see, the results are, well, interesting. He washes off the soap and dries his face on a towel. Norbert then puts toothpaste on his toothbrush and brushes his teeth. He brushes his hair. Once he has cleaned up and the washing materials have been removed, it is time for breakfast -- a good big bowl of oatmeal, which he eats with a large spoon. He uses a big napkin to wipe his face. "Umm, that was good!" Now he is ready to face the day. All he needs is his hat, a knitted cap. Norbert thanks all the nice people for coming to see him. He hopes they have enjoyed their visit!